The native American flute is showcased in new works by American composers.

Captivated by the sound of the native American flute, virtuoso flutist James Pellerite has virtually single-handedly reinvented the playing of the instrument by commissioning dozens of composers to write for it. The resulting new works have challenged Pellerite to develop new techniques for the instrument. His legacy is therefore both an entire body of literature for the instrument and the development of techniques necessary to perform the music. Former principal flutist of the Philadelphia Orchestra, Pellerite has also had a long and distinguished career as Professor of Flute at Indiana University. This recording showcases the native American flute in a range of contemporary styles by eight composers, performed by the man who re-imagined the instrument.

Review:

“If there’s one word to describe the music on this CD, it is ‘haunting.’ But there is a richness of flavors and auras and colors to be discerned and enjoyed from what compos-ers, James Pellerite, and friends have conjured.” (Hoosier Times“Pellerite and his fellow musicians communicate a wide range of emotion on a disc that features clear, pristine sound. I enjoyed this recording immensely, and I think readers will want to own it.” (Fanfare)

“Embrace the Wind is one of the most innovative flute CDs produced in a long time. …If you are looking for something unusual but highly artistic, this is the CD for you.” (Flute Talk)

“Pellerite has bestowed on [the Native American flute] a rare chromatic language and a place on the concert stage it never would have had.” (American Record Guide)